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Home > Drug Category > Blood Pressure Medications (Calcium & Beta Blockers) > Verelan and Equivalent

Verelan Information

Verelan (verapamil hydrochloride) is a calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina pectoris (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders, such as supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. It functions by inhibiting the flow of calcium ions into the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels. This action results in the relaxation of blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure and a slowing heart rate, decreasing the heart's workload and oxygen demand, thus alleviating angina. In heart rhythm disturbances, verapamil helps to regulate the electrical activity within the heart, promoting a more stable and regular rhythm. Verelan is an extended-release formulation designed to release the medication gradually over a prolonged period, typically allowing for once-daily dosing. By blocking calcium channels, verapamil affects the contractility of the heart muscle, the conduction of electrical impulses within the heart, and the tone of vascular smooth muscle. These combined effects make it a valuable medication for managing various cardiovascular conditions.

Verelan Side Effects

Common side effects associated with Verelan may include constipation, dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, heartburn, and swelling of the ankles or feet. These side effects are usually mild and may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects, such as:
• Allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing)
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Fainting or severe lightheadedness
• Flu-like symptoms
• Irregular or very slow heartbeat
• Liver problems (such as persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach pain, yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, pale stools)
• Loss of appetite
• Marked dizziness
• New or worsening symptoms of heart failure (such as increased shortness of breath, unusual weight gain)
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Significant decrease in blood pressure (symptoms may include severe dizziness, fainting)
• Significant swelling in the hands, legs or ankles
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Unusual weakness or tiredness, lack of energy

Verelan Precautions

Do not use Verelan if you have a known allergy to verapamil or any of its inactive ingredients. It is also contraindicated in individuals with certain severe heart conditions, including severe left ventricular dysfunction, sick sinus syndrome or second- or third-degree AV block (unless a functioning pacemaker is present), atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation (e.g., Wolff-Parkison-White or Lown-Ganong-Levine syndromes) and cardiogenic shock. Before starting Verelan, it is crucial to inform your doctor about your complete medical history, particularly if you have heart failure, heart rhythm disorders, low blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, narrowing or blockage in your digestive system, or a neuromuscular disorder like Duchenne's muscular dystrophy or myasthenia gravis. Disclose to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed. Verapamil can pass into breast milk, and the potential effects on a nursing infant are not fully understood; a discussion about the risks and benefits with your doctor is essential. It is vital to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as Verelan can interact with other medicines. Notable interactions can occur with other heart medications (e.g., digoxin, beta-blockers, and antiarrhythmics), certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin and clarithromycin), antifungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole and itraconazole), statins (e.g., simvastatin and lovastatin), anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, or barbiturates), cimetidine and ranitidine, lithium, and cyclosporine. Significant interactions can also occur with anti-HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir and darunavir), other calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem and nifedipine), muscle relaxants (e.g., vecuronium), alpha-blockers (e.g., prazosin), certain antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine and paroxetine), and other gastrointestinal medications (e.g., cisapride). Be aware that ergot derivatives and uricosurics can also interact with certain herbal supplements like St. John's Wort and hawthorn. Consuming large quantities of grapefruit juice while taking Verelan can increase the levels of verapamil in your bloodstream, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects; therefore, avoiding excessive grapefruit juice intake is generally recommended. Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase the risk of dizziness or low blood pressure. If you are scheduled for any surgical procedures, including dental work, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Verelan.

Take Verelan exactly as your doctor prescribed. The extended-release capsules are typically taken once daily, usually in the morning. Swallow the capsules whole and do not crush, chew, or open them. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. You can take Verelan with or without food, but consistency in how you take it each day is essential. Taking Verelan at the same time every day will help you remember. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage over time to achieve the optimal therapeutic effect. Continue taking Verelan as your doctor directs, even if you are feeling well. It is an integral part of your treatment plan, which may also include lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and exercise. Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are necessary to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment. Store Verelan at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Ensure that all medications are kept out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Verelan?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Verelan.